Position Overview:
The 5-Axis CNC Mill Programmer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and maintaining CNC programs for complex 3- and 5-axis machining in the aerospace, defense, and motorsports industries. Working closely with the CNC Machine Shop Operations Manager, this role ensures parts meet Fibreworks Composites (FWC) manufacturing standards while maintaining high precision and quality.
The Programmer will oversee first article production, identify and troubleshoot process issues, make necessary adjustments, and ensure compliance with quality assurance procedures. Additionally, they will leverage their technical expertise to develop and refine machining processes, taking full ownership from program conception to final production.
This role requires collaboration with the manufacturing engineer, engineering, and quality teams to provide design-for-manufacturability input, support documentation for audits, and continuously improve machining processes while ensuring operator safety and compliance with industry standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and optimize 3- and 5-axis mill CNC programs for complex aerospace and motorsports components across a range of materials, including alloy steels, stainless steels, aluminum, tooling boards, and composites.
- Apply advanced machining strategies for composite and core materials (e.g., honeycomb, sandwich panels, prepregs) to prevent delamination and ensure structural integrity.
- Analyze engineering drawings, models, and specifications to create accurate and efficient machining processes.
- Utilize program verification and crash protection software to validate toolpaths, prevent collisions, and ensure program accuracy.
- Preferred but not required: Set up and troubleshoot post-processors to ensure accurate translation from CAM systems to machine-ready code.
- Develop comprehensive work packages, including CNC programs, setup sheets, tool lists, and supporting documentation for machinists.
- Identify missing or unclear information in engineering drawings and coordinate directly with Engineering or the Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer to resolve gaps, including submitting print update requests as needed.
- Support the Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer in the development of In-Process Inspections (IPIs), ensuring all critical machining-related inspection points are properly defined.
- Collaborate closely with the Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer and machinists to develop detailed work instructions, setup sheets, and shop floor documentation.
- Provide design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback to Engineering to improve part quality, reduce machining complexity, and increase efficiency.
- Assist in the design and development of fixturing and tooling solutions
- Provide hands-on shop floor support, including troubleshooting machining issues, optimizing processes, and supporting first-time setups and prove-outs.
- Lead or support first article production and prepare/review First Article Inspection (FAI) documentation in compliance with AS9100 / ISO standards.
- Partner with Engineering, Quality, and the Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer to perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to reduce non-conformances.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives by standardizing programming practices, improving process efficiency, and implementing Lean manufacturing principles.
- Ensure adherence to all quality, safety, and production requirements, including safe programming practices, operator safety considerations, and proper use of PPE and equipment.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
What You Will Bring to the Team:
- High school diploma or equivalency required.
- 5+ years of machining experience, preferably in aerospace or mold making, with an additional 5+ years in CNC programming (Mastercam preferred).
- Strong working knowledge of CNC machining, G & M codes, CAD/CAM software, and the ability to manipulate 3D models for precision machining.
- Ability to analyze and interpret engineering drawings, mechanical documents, and blueprints to develop accurate CNC programs and machining processes.
- Proven problem-solving and troubleshooting skills to diagnose machining issues, adjust processes, and optimize efficiency while adhering to established procedures.
- Proficiency in trigonometry, geometry, and precise mathematical calculations to ensure machining accuracy and quality.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, adapting to changing priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
- Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary engineering and manufacturing team.
- Extensive knowledge of machine operation, maintenance, tools, and materials, with experience in Fidia, Fagor, and Siemens 840D controls considered a bonus.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or lawful Permanent Resident in compliance with ITAR regulations.
Our Investment in You:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
- 401(k) matching after 6 months tenure
- Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and sick days
- Employee referral program
- Shift differential for 2nd shift employees
- Potential to earn quarterly discretionary bonuses based on company performance
- Discounts on select services/products
- Climate-controlled work environment
Hours of Operation:
Normal business hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekends and holidays as scheduled.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
- Combination of indoor and outdoor activities with varying conditions
- Requires walking, standing, sitting, climbing, balancing, bending, reaching, handling, stooping, kneeling, and crouching
- Ability to lift/carry/push/pull up to 50 pounds
- May involve operating material handling equipment in a safe manner
- Work may include exposure to variable noise levels, fumes, airborne particles, hazardous chemicals, etc., requiring personal protective equipment
- Some positions may require working with small parts/components, necessitating excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
- Specific vision abilities required, including close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
Fibreworks Composites LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Pay: From $90,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) 5% Match
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
